Former Commissioner for Commerce and Industry in Delta State, Hon. Azuka Osakwe, has said that the topic for discussion at this year’s edition of Maris Annual Public Service Lecture is long overdue for discussion.
Reacting to the topic at the weekend, Osakwe said, “we would have had that discussion long ago.”
He expressed confidence that a lot would be achieved at this year’s lecture, noting that the topic for discussion, “Local Governance And Sustainable Development” would attract a lot of participants to the lecture billed to hold on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba.
He added, “Empowering local governments, addressing funding and skill-building needs, and promoting citizen involvement, will help our communities thrive.
“Good luck to your team.”
Another respondent said that the lecture is compulsory for all Local government council Chairmen to attend as bottom-top approach to governance could lead to sustainable development.
The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA, are expected to attend the lecture as Special Guest of Honour and Guest of Honour respectively while a renowned technocrat, Sir Patrick Ejidoh will deliver the Keynote Address.
Former member, House of Representatives, Hon. Ben Ibakpa, Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and that of Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, the Founder of Eagles Height Properties, Mrs Mabel Magbulu and the Chairman, Udu Local Government Council, Hon. Vincent Oyibode will be discussants at the lecture.
The Obi of Aboh Kingdom, His Imperial Majesty, Obi Oputa III will be the Chairman of Occasion, while the Odiega of Ebu, Prof. Kemi Emina will moderate the discussion segment of the lecture billed to commence at exactly 12 Noon.
Maris Annual Public Service Lecture is free as it provides platform for topical issues to be addressed annually.
